X-Message-Number: 15108
References: <>
Date: Tue, 12 Dec 2000 16:24:55 +0000
From: "Joseph Kehoe" <>
Subject: religion

>I see no reason for there to be any problem between those who believe in
>some form of life after death and cryonics.
>
>Yes, there do exist a few religions which reject certain medical
>interventions such as blood transfusions and even birth control pills.
>However, it is my understanding that most religions have no problem with
>heart resuscitation techniques and numerous other modern medical "miracles".
>In this sense, I think that it is fairly clear that the majority of
>religions have no problem with efforts to medically intervene as technology
>continues to shrink the meaning of what constitutes "death".


I  must admit I have not checked the official line of the "Christian" churches 
on Cryonics.

I suspect the Catholic church would be against it if they were forced to give an
opinion.

I assumed they would be against it because the idea of a soul does not meld well
with cryonics working.
If I had a soul what would it spent its time doing if I were frozen?
Is my soul frozen also?

If not, does it hang around in "heaven/hell" untill I am unfrozen and then race 
back to my body?
None of the above makes much sense to me (based on Western Christian beliefs).
Of course I would welcome any religious people who wished to become frozen.

>Finally, is it wise to denigrate the majority of people (members of
>religions) if we both want cryonics to survive and grow?  What is to be
>gained by insulting people who do not share your world view?  And what can
>be lost?  If most members of your own family are very religious and you want
>your intentions for cryonic suspension to be honored (or at the very least
>unopposed) by them, wouldn't it be wiser to try to demonstrate that THIS
>form of body "disposal" does not clash with THEIR religious beliefs (if that
>is possible)?


I never meant to imply that religious people are stupid. I know some fine, 
intelligent religous people

and I respect their right to believe in whatever they wish as long as they don't
use these beliefs to
interfere with me. I just think they are mistaken is all.

I personally think that cryonics organisations should keep a very low profile 
with regard to religious organisations.

It could result in cryonics being branded a cult. If they do get upset they can 
do some damage to the

"movement" especially in places like America and Ireland. If cryonics were based
in England
or elsewhere in Europe then it would not matter as much.

In the end I believe my family will respect my wishes (once they get used to the
idea)
but it will cause a bit of an upset for our many inlaws and outlaws.


p.s. All organisations do brainwash but they don't all get access to children 
from 4/5 years old until they reach adulthood ;-)

If I ever get unfrozen and the person who greets me says "we thank  God for your
safe revival"
then I will be very confused and worried (but happy to have survived).
Joseph.

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